Can You Control Workplace Interruptions?

Having trouble concentrating on important tasks at work because of frequent interruptions?
If so, knowing how to control
and avoid them can increase your productivity. Here is a quiz to help you assess your
knowledge of how to deal with interruptions.

1. It's efficient to check your e-mail every time you get a message.

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It's more efficient to open your e-mail only twice a day, unless you're expecting a crucial message.

A. TrueB. False

2. You should always work with your office door open.

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Doing so invites interruptions. Instead, close your door or, if you work in a cubicle, stretch a piece of tape across the opening or find another way to indicate you're unavailable when you have crucial work you must complete.

A. TrueB. False

3. If part of your job involves frequent consultation with your staff or coworkers, schedule a specific time on your calendar for those meetings each day.

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By scheduling the meeting times, you can better plan your day.

A. TrueB. False

4. Stand up to talk when someone comes into your office uninvited.

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You're in for a long interruption if you let your visitor sit comfortably in a chair.

A. TrueB. False

5. If someone comes into your office with something important to discuss, ask the person to give you a few minutes, then go to his or her office.

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That way, you can control the length of the conversation.

A. TrueB. False

6. Arrange your desk and chair so you're not in full view of casual passersby.

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People will usually think twice about disturbing you if they have to peek around the corner to see you.

A. TrueB. False

7. Have a comfortable chair for visitors in your office.

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Having a comfortable chair for visitors increases the chances people will stop by to chat.

A. TrueB. False

8. If someone with a problem or a question walks into your office uninvited, ignore them.

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Instead, say, "I'm tied up at the moment. Can you come back at (suggest a specific time), and we can talk about it then?"

A. TrueB. False

9. Always answer your phone, even if you're working on an important project.

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Let voice mail or the receptionist pick it up. Then, at the 60- to 90-minute mark, check your messages and return your calls.